Alliance, OH, United States

Alliance may be the "Carnation City", but with a population of just 22,282, the reality is a sleepy, aging Rust Belt town. While it boasts a quaint historic downtown and the University of Mount Union, the city struggles with a 35% poverty rate and high unemployment. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the mayor-council government overseeing everything from the public school system to the Amtrak station. Those seeking an affordable, quiet lifestyle may find Alliance appealing, but young professionals and families should look elsewhere.